More importantly his enthusiasm and passion for the game meant bucket-loads to us - and obviously to his team-mates as well.

As well as being strong defensively, he enjoyed a purple-patch in front of goal midway through the season - and always looked a player with more to offer - which is why he would have been welcomed back this summer.

Kevin Keegan would have signed him already if it wasn't for Lyon's £6m asking price - as it is he will be sorely missed by all in Manchester.